Core Viewpoint - The article highlights the academic contributions and legacy of Xu Zhuoyun, a prominent Chinese historian, emphasizing his significant works that laid the foundation for the study of ancient Chinese history and society [1][2]. Group 1: Academic Contributions - Xu Zhuoyun's early works, including "Ancient China in Transition," "Han Agriculture," and "Western Zhou History," established his academic reputation and are considered classics in historical scholarship [1][4]. - His approach combined rigorous methodology with innovative perspectives, such as using sociological quantitative methods to analyze historical changes, which was unprecedented in the field [5][6]. - The publication of "Han Agriculture" provided a sociological analysis of traditional Chinese agricultural structures, highlighting the evolution of agricultural marketization in ancient China [5][10]. Group 2: Influence and Recognition - Xu's works gained international recognition, with "Han Agriculture" being included in Harvard University's Asian Studies series and receiving high praise from notable scholars like Fei Zhengqing [6][10]. - His contributions to the understanding of ancient Chinese civilization, particularly the transition from feudalism to a centralized state, have been influential in shaping modern historical discourse [12]. Group 3: Future Research Directions - Xu expressed a desire for future scholars to build upon his foundational work, particularly in exploring the complexities of local governance and social structures during the Han dynasty [12]. - The recent archaeological discoveries provide new opportunities for in-depth studies of ancient Chinese societal frameworks, which Xu indicated were only beginning to be explored in his writings [12].